Australia welcomes the start of MH17 trials in the Netherlands

Australia welcomes the commencement of the trials of four suspects in the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight MH17.

The trials are a significant step towards achieving justice and accountability for the 298 victims of MH17, including 38 people who called Australia home. Prosecuting these crimes in an open and independent court sends a powerful message that alleged perpetrators will face justice.

While nothing can bring back those who lost their lives, Australia will continue to fight for justice for the victims of MH17 and their families. We are supporting the Dutch prosecutions, including funding the victims’ families to participate in, travel to, or otherwise have meaningful access to the trials. Court hearings will also be livestreamed and translated.

These Dutch trials are the result of a five-year international criminal investigation into the downing conducted by the Joint Investigation Team, comprising Australia, Belgium, the Netherlands, Ukraine and Malaysia.

The prosecutions are separate but complementary to the ongoing talks following Australia and the Netherlands’ attribution of State responsibility to the Russian Federation for its role in the downing of flight MH17. The Australian Government remains steadfast in its commitment to pursuing justice and accountability for MH17.